The tension between father and son became palpable as Pradyuman stood, watching Nakul retreat further into his own mind. It was Abhijeet who broke the silence, stepping in to diffuse the situation. He had been watching from the sidelines, understanding Nakul's hesitation better than anyone.
"Nakul, listen to me," Abhijeet said softly, stepping closer. "It's okay to be afraid. You're not alone in this."
Nakul looked up at him, eyes filled with fear. "It's not just fear, Abhijeet. I feel like... if I do this, I'm accepting something terrible. The curse, the darkness—it'll become real."
Abhijeet's expression softened, his hand reaching out to rest gently on Nakul's arm. "I know what you're feeling. But the baby is still a part of you, a part of your life now. Feeding them isn't about giving in to the curse. It's about love, about connection."
Nakul closed his eyes, feeling the warmth of Abhijeet's hand, but the fear remained. "What if... what if I lose control? What if feeding them makes the curse stronger?"
Abhijeet shook his head gently. "You won't lose control. You have us—we're all here to help you, Nakul. But the baby needs you. They need to feel your love, not your fear."
Pradyuman, who had been silent, stepped forward again. "This isn't just about feeding, Nakul. It's about accepting your role as a father. If you keep pushing the child away, the bond will weaken. And that's when the curse will find a way in."
YOU ARE READING
Secrets of a Second Life
FantasyNakul and his daughter Aisha navigate the challenges of parenthood while haunted by a mysterious curse. As shadows threaten their fragile peace, ACP Pradyuman stands as a protector. Nakul fiercely defends his family, confronting the growing darkness...